Make an enquiry
There are two ways to get in touch with us:
Call the house on (03) 9966 8440
Request a referral from a social worker or medical authority to stay at the House.
Keeping our families safe
Continuing to provide a safe and supportive environment for families of seriously ill children at our Ronald McDonald Houses and Programs is our absolute priority.
Staying at the House
Our North Fitzroy House gives seriously ill children the best gift of all – their families. Our warm and supportive home-away-from-home provides the whole family with a comfortable place to stay and peace of mind, knowing they can stay together and close to their child’s hospital.
Ronald McDonald House North Fitzroy located at the historic Casa Elda Vaccari (a former light rail substation) caters to the growing need for regional, rural and interstate families to have access to safe and reliable accommodation in central Melbourne while their child undergoes treatment in the city. Retaining lots of its original character, our House has been converted into a purpose-built accommodation facility for up to 25 families a night. Our sincere thanks go to the Vaccari Foundation for making Ronald McDonald House North Fitzroy possible.
Who’s eligible to stay with us?
Keeping the family together can be extremely tough without support, which is why we offer accommodation for parents with seriously ill children who need to travel to a treating hospital in Melbourne.
Our Team
Our dedicated team are ready to reach out with a helping hand whenever things get a little tough. Thanks to our amazing army of over 100 volunteers, we’re able to accommodate families 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Fees
Ronald McDonald House understands that being away from home for long periods of time can put families under financial pressure. That’s why our accommodation is free for eligible families of seriously ill children.
While our policy is to provide free accommodation, your stay at the House may require you to claim financial support towards accommodation and travel from the relevant government transport assistance scheme in your home state. Our friendly team are happy to work with you to apply for the relevant financial support.
To find out if you’re eligible for government financial assistance, contact your hospital social worker or talk to one of our team.
Want to know more?
Being forced to move your family far from home, work, school and your entire support network due to a child’s illness is extraordinarily tough. Our House has a wonderful community spirit, where you’ll be able to connect with other families going through experiences similar to your own. Our communal facilities also provide families with the independence to be able to cater for themselves and keep up with day-to-day living as much as possible.
On arrival, families receive a welcome pack containing basic toiletries, maps of the area and a guide to services available during their stay. We are a self-catering House, but we do provide tea, coffee and other basic food items. Our donation pantries are regularly stocked with goodies brought in by our friends and volunteers.
